House of Representatives
Session of 2017 - 2018
Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation prohibiting the sale of e-cigarettes and related products to minors.

"E-cigarettes," sometimes know as "vape pens," are used to deliver nicotine and other substances into the body in the form of a vapor. The products come in a variety of flavors, which may increase their appeal to minors. Touted as harmless by enthusiasts, medical experts have warned that there may be serious concerns over the unproven safety claims of these products. There is also concern that "vaping" may lead to other dangerous experimentation.

My bill would amend Section 6305 of the Crimes Code, which makes it illegal to sell tobacco products to minors, by adding other "nicotine delivery products" as well. It would still be legal to sell e-cigarettes and vape pens in Pennsylvania - just not to children. The penalties for selling to minors would be the same as the penalties under current law for selling them tobacco products.

We learned our lesson from the tobacco industry: companies can and do target kids without regard for their health and well-being if a profit can be made. It is imperative that we act now to keep these products out of our children's hands. I urge you to join me in cosponsoring this important legislation.